I intend to build a home that will be rented out to offset the costs of ownership.I can find construction to permanent loans on second homes easily. 

Just checking my math.This is obviously after all expense , depreciation, cost set, property tax write offs, 20% etc.my question is are my assumptions correct? 

They're making it pretty hard for STR investors in the state, plus everything costs so much there! 

You also have closing costs associated with it and you are only able to pull out a certain amount.

My out-of-pocket $40,000You are into it for $430,000 plus closing costs for a questionable value of $450,000.

This protects me from unwanted vacancies but gives the tenants a fairly low-cost option to get out of a lease.

What is the most effective way to get a mentor?

Reduce landscaping service costs, reduce water consumption, reduce other utility bills, etc…

From lots of experience, Zillow may cost more, but the leads are much higher quality!

. , the other thing I often do when I'm starting to evaluate a new market, I subscribe to the local newspaper or the local business journal and doesn't cost that much, usually $5 to $10 a month.